In pursuit of the sublime landscapes of the Lake District National Park, we ventured straight from the office in Cornwall, travelling through an assortment of UK counties before finally arriving in the idyllic Cumbrian countryside. There, we embarked on a cosy weekend getaway at the enchanting Outrake Farm, our homely retreat for ten perched in the village of Coniston.
Making the most of the unexpected spring sunshine, we made our way north to Keswick before heading to our farmhouse escape. A quaint town nestled on the shores of Derwentwater, we wandered the picturesque centre for a little while before taking a stroll along by the lake, admiring the glistening water’s edge, where the vintage-style canoes and wildlife made for a pretty photograph.
Later that afternoon, we meandered through the Cumbrian countryside through sleepy lanes and tall hedgerows before we were finally greeted by the towering Old Man of Coniston, a unique feature of the village’s landscape. After passing Yew Tree Farm, previously owned by Beatrix Potter and a location for the 2006 film, we gradually climbed through the village towards our luxury getaway. As we began the stone track towards the house behind a trio of wild Herwick sheep, we knew we’d uncovered our very own dreamlike world for a dose of weekend magic.
Promising scenes straight from a postcard, our weekend abode blended seamlessly into its wildly sublime surrounds, with a charming slate roof and a beautifully landscaped, wraparound garden, alive with early spring blooms. From seeking shade beneath the blossom tree with a book, or dining on the terrace looking towards the glistening Coniston Lake, this space was simply arcadia.
Unlocking the door, we were immediately charmed with the blush, wood-panelled boot room, before entering the spacious Victorian-inspired kitchen/dining room, where ambient lighting promised a warm welcome. Designed in a classic farmhouse style with metro tiles and slate flagstones underfoot, we knew instantly this would be our favourite space to while away the days with the lake view doors ajar.
Inviting for cosy evenings in front of the wood burning stove, the sumptuous sitting room had plenty of entertainment, from a writing desk for those seeking a space to journal, to a grand piano for the musicians of the party.
We wandered upstairs to discover the bedrooms, with a choice of four in the main house. Whilst there was just the two of us from BR HQ this time, Outrake Farm has the dreamy addition of the detached Barn, sleeping a further two guests in a mezzanine bedroom - a perfect option for those seeking a destination for a multi-generational escape. We opted for the front bedrooms, each offering the heavenly combination of en suite bathrooms and ethereal vistas over Coniston Water.
Drifting outdoors to savour the fading spring sunlight, we pottered around the terrace with a glass of wine before ending the evening with a home-cooked feast, crafted in Outrake’s wonderfully equipped kitchen, where a generous welcome hamper brimming with locally sourced produce had been kindly left for us to enjoy.
Indulging in a lingering lie-in on our first morning of the weekend, we gathered in the kitchen for our breakfast, which consisted of almond croissants and fresh coffee. Admiring the twittering of the birds and endless beauty of our surroundings, we plotted our Saturday agenda.
We wound ourselves through the quintessential backdrop of the Cumbrian countryside past newborn lambs to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s former home. We ambled through the English cottage style garden before heading into the house, a treasure trove of the adored authors illustrations and favourite things. From the mesmerising dolls house to the original figurine collection, we loved learning all about her life and her role in the conservation of the Lake District’s land and native Herdwick sheep.
Venturing through moody scenery to Grasmere Village, we discovered the grave of renowned Romantic poet William Wordsworth in the churchyard of St Oswald’s before paying a visit to the famous Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. Created by Victorian cook Sarah Nelson in 1854, the recipe of this artisan sweet treat has remained unchanged to this day, freshly baked and sold in the unique store every day.
After a busy day exploring, we dined at the Drunken Duck in Ambleside that evening, a characterful inn with a pretty façade and charming views. We started with sourdough, whilst mains consisted of wild truffle raviolo and venison pie with red wine sauce, with pavlova and poached rhubarb tempting us for dessert.
We enjoyed a slow Sunday morning in the thoughtfully curated snug of our dreamy Lake District escape, later deciding on Tarn Hows as our first destination of the day.
Nestled between Coniston and Hawkshead, this National Trust is a perfect option for walkers and cyclists, offering a breath-taking, fairly short circular route through woodland and hills. We admired the majestic mountain scenes and quiet countryside around us, and it wasn’t long before we found a small herd of belted Galloway cows grazing beside the water.
After our drizzly but dreamy stroll, we headed back through the village in pursuit of a hearty late lunch at The Crown Inn. With a charming country pub atmosphere, this was a lovely spot to enjoy a hearty homemade pie – and dog-friendly for those with canine companions in tow.
With no sign of the weather ceasing, we headed back to Outrake Farm to light the wood burner, hunkering down in front of the fire with a fine selection of cheese, wine, and board games to entertain us for the remainder of the evening.
As our weekend in the Lake District drew to a gentle close, we soaked up the final moments of stillness, reluctant to leave our home from home after magical weekend of slow living and timeless country charm.
For those plotting an escape to our modern rustic farmhouse, uncover the enchantment of Outrake Farm here…
